Sunday Baked Vegetable Lasagna

Name: Sunday Baked Vegetable Lasagna
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 9 lasagna noodles, cooked and drained; 1 medium eggplant, sliced; 1 medium zucchini, sliced; 2 cups fresh spinach; 2 cups ricotta cheese; 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 3 cups marinara sauce; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Family Kitchen

I absolutely love making this Sunday Baked Vegetable Lasagna; it’s become a staple in my home. The layered combination of fresh vegetables, ricotta cheese, and homemade marinara sauce makes it not just a delicious meal, but one that brings everyone together. It’s healthy, hearty, and bursting with flavor, making it a perfect dish for family gatherings. I love that it can be prepped ahead of time and baked just before serving, providing a comforting meal with minimal fuss on a busy day.

Created by

Gemma Hollis

Last updated on 2026-01-12T06:13:34.606Z

Every time I bake this lasagna, the aroma wafting through the kitchen is simply irresistible. I remember the first time I made it; I had friends over for dinner and wanted to impress them. As I layered the fresh vegetables, the vibrant colors reminded me that cooking is an art. The combination of eggplant, zucchini, and spinach not only adds nutrition but also texture that contrasts beautifully with the creamy cheeses.

One tip I’ve learned is to roast the vegetables before layering them; this enhances their natural sweetness while also reducing excess moisture in the lasagna. This way, I end up with that perfect bake where every bite offers a symphony of flavors, leaving my guests asking for seconds!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Fresh vegetables bring vibrant color and nutrition to every bite
Layers of rich, creamy cheeses create a heavenly taste experience
It can be made ahead of time, perfect for easy weekend meals

      

Layering for Flavor

The essence of a great lasagna lies in the layering technique. Start with the sauce as your base to prevent sticking and ensure the noodles cook evenly. Place three lasagna noodles directly on the sauce, and make sure they slightly overlap for a cohesive structure. Use a spatula to smooth out your layers, ensuring even distribution of the filling for a more balanced flavor in every bite.

In this recipe, the order of layering can significantly affect the final outcome. Place the roasted vegetables next to the ricotta and spinach layers, letting their flavors meld. The creaminess of the ricotta combined with the slight bitterness of spinach and the sweet roasted notes from the veggies create a harmonious experience. Don’t be afraid to sprinkle additional herbs or spices for an extra flavor kick!

Executing a Perfect Bake

Baking is where the magic happens in this lasagna. Start by covering it with foil to create steamy conditions, which ensures the noodles soften and absorb the flavors from the sauce and fillings. After 25 minutes, removing the foil allows the top to brown beautifully. Look for a golden crust and bubbling edges, which are signs of a well-baked lasagna.

If you find that the top isn’t as golden as you desire after the total baking time, a quick slop under the broiler for 2-3 minutes can enhance browning. Just keep a close eye on it to prevent burning, as this can happen quickly. The texture you aim for should be creamy and slightly crunchy on the top, providing a delightful contrast.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients for a delightful lasagna experience.

For the Lasagna

9 lasagna noodles, cooked and drained
1 medium eggplant, sliced
1 medium zucchini, sliced
2 cups fresh spinach
2 cups ricotta cheese
1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
3 cups marinara sauce
2 cloves garlic, minced
Olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Ensure you have everything ready before you start assembling your lasagna.

Instructions

Follow these steps for a delicious homemade lasagna.

Prep the Vegetables

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the eggplant and zucchini with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper. Spread them on a baking sheet and roast for about 20 minutes until tender.

Assemble the Lasagna

In a large baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce. Lay three lasagna noodles on the sauce, then add half of the roasted vegetables, followed by a layer of ricotta cheese, spinach, and mozzarella cheese. Repeat this layer until all ingredients are used, finishing with mozzarella and Parmesan on top.

Bake

Cover the lasagna with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 20 minutes, until the top is golden and bubbly.

Serve

Let the lasagna cool for about 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy your meal!

Enjoy the delicious layers and flavors with your loved ones!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding your favorite herbs like basil or oregano in between the layers. This can elevate the taste profile of your lasagna to a whole new level.

Prep and Storage

Preparation is key to making your baking day less stressful. You can roast the vegetables a day ahead and keep them stored in an airtight container in the fridge. This way, they are ready to layer when you assemble the lasagna. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making your dish even tastier.

If you have leftovers, store the lasagna in tightly sealed portions for up to three days in the refrigerator. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil to prevent it from drying out. You can also freeze assembled, uncooked lasagna; just extend baking time by about 15 minutes when cooked from frozen.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a lighter version, consider swapping out ricotta for cottage cheese; it provides a similar texture with fewer calories. Alternatively, you could use a dairy-free cheese if you're catering to vegan preferences. This will slightly alter the taste but can still yield a satisfying meal.

If eggplant isn't your favorite, zucchini can easily take its place or be mixed with other vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers. Don’t be hesitant to experiment! Each vegetable will introduce its unique flavor, ensuring that the lasagna doesn’t taste the same every time you make it.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this lasagna ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just remember to cover it well to prevent it from drying out.

→ Can I substitute the vegetables?

Yes, feel free to substitute with any seasonal vegetables you prefer, such as bell peppers or mushrooms.

→ What if I don’t have ricotta cheese?

You can use cottage cheese or a mix of cream cheese and yogurt as a substitute.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover lasagna in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.